PHILADELPHIA — Eagles quarterback Nick Foles will play in Thursday night’s preseason game against the Cleveland Browns, according to coach Doug Pederson.
Foles sprained his throwing shoulder last week against the New England Patriots after being hit mid-throw by defensive end Adrian Clayborn in the second quarter. He clutched his arm as he went to the turf and did not return. Foles said afterwards that it “got jarred in a funny way as I was following through.” Further testing revealed it was just a mild strain, and he was back on the practice field by Sunday.
The Super Bowl MVP had a rocky night even before the injury, going 3-of-9 for 44 yards in his first action of the preseason. “Just consistency,” said Pederson of what he’d like to see out of Foles this week. “You guys saw a couple throws early in the game that just were not Nick Foles-type throws as far as accuracy goes, so just making those type of routine plays and just overall execution. Would love to see a touchdown drive or two.”
Pederson wants his starters to play at least a half against the Browns.
Carson Wentz returned to 11-on-11 drills at practice this week and is splitting first-team reps with Foles, but will not play this week as he has not yet been cleared for contact by the medical team. He reiterated Monday that his status for Week 1 against the Atlanta Falcons is going to come down to the wire. In all likelihood, he will not see any preseason action.
“He’s doing well. He’s moving well, he’s making good decisions, he’s throwing the ball extremely well,” said Pederson. “He’s doing the right things with his rehab and I’m excited about the stage that he’s in.”
Left tackle Jason Peters and running back Darren Sproles will sit out once again. Both are coming off reconstructive knee surgery, and while they have practiced this summer, the Eagles are more concerned about getting their veterans to the starting line healthy.
Receiver Alshon Jeffery remains on the physically unable to perform list and is unlikely to make an appearance this preseason. Fellow wideout Nelson Agholor and running back Jay Ajayi are dealing with lower body injuries, per Pederson.
Defensive end Brandon Graham was activated off PUP Monday. He won’t play Thursday but is hopeful to return for the opener on September 6.